#WeAreNorthern
Meet Wendy Nicol, Operations Manager, Support Services.
Q: Let’s start with your coffee order?
I only drink Green tea, although I will occasionally have a hot chocolate.
Q: Tell us about your journey at Northern Health – where you started and how you ended in your role today.
I joined Northern Health almost seven years ago, bringing with me a background in hospitality, human resources and facilities management. When COVID-19 hit, I was looking for a meaningful career change and was drawn to healthcare, which led me to Northern Health. Working in Support Services has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. I’m proud to be part of a team that plays a vital role in keeping our facilities running smoothly and supporting patient care every day. I feel fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated and supportive group of people who make every day engaging and inspiring.
Q: If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing instead?
I originally aspired to be a secondary school teacher, but with a surplus of teachers in Victoria at the time, I chose to pursue a business degree instead. That decision has shaped my career and provided many valuable opportunities, so I have never regretted my choice, although to this day, I think I would have loved being a teacher!
Q: How would you describe Northern Health in one sentence?
I truly enjoy working at Northern Health, where every day brings meaningful work, opportunities for growth, and the chance to collaborate with a wonderful, supportive team.
Q: Favourite travel destination, and why?
I’ve been fortunate to travel widely, thanks to my dad’s career in the airline industry, which gave us countless opportunities to explore amazing places when I was younger. Of all the destinations I’ve visited, my family and I always find ourselves drawn back to the USA. Whenever we’re there, we make it a point to visit Walt Disney World in Florida – a cherished tradition that reminds us that, no matter your age, it truly is the most magical and happiest place on Earth!
Q: What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
I carry the BRCA2 gene mutation, which gives me a 69 per cent lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and a 17 per cent risk of ovarian cancer. I inherited this gene from my dad, whose family has a significant history of cancer. I have faced breast cancer twice and am grateful to have overcome it on both occasions. These experiences have made me a passionate advocate for genetic screening in families with a history of cancer. Knowing my BRCA2 status allowed me to detect my first cancer at an early stage through routine MRI screening. I work closely with Inherited Cancers Australia, who do incredible work supporting and advocating for families like mine.